Writing Quality Code in Erlang

One of the most common questions on Stack Exchange is “Why does Erlang syntax resemble Prolog with asphyxia?” [1]

In this talk, Garrett will obliterate the notion that Erlang syntax is weird or that you can’t use it to write beautiful code. The plain truth is that it’s easier to write beautiful code in Erlang than it is in most other languages.

Garrett will describe methods for writing luscious, gorgeous, easy-to-read and maintain Erlang programs. He will cover topics such as:

• API design
• Function and variable names
• Proper use of case and if expressions
• Managing complex data structures
• Code refactoring
• Common functional patterns

Garrett will draw from the coding styles of the Erlang masters as well as his own experience an Erlang programmer and instructor. He will argue will a zeal bordering on religious fervor, chiding those with different views. [2]

About Garrett

Garrett Smith is programmer at CloudBees, a leading platform-as-a-service vendor, where he leads the use of Erlang to manage platform services and infrastructure. He has over 20 years development experience and specializes in distributed systems and reliable software. Garrett organizes the Chicago Erlang User Group and an occasionally teaches Erlang classes. He’s the author of the e2, an Erlang library that simplifies the process of writing correct OTP application.